Call for Speakers

Tech Forward brings together experts from around the world to be a part of the discussion surrounding nonprofit technology. Do you have expertise or experience that will benefit our attendees and want to share on our stage? If so, we invite you to submit a speaker proposal below.

Tech Forward’s goal is to provide practical, real-world information and experiences to attendees from speakers from varying backgrounds. For our 2021 virtual conference, each speaker will pre-record a 5 minute lightning style talk to be included in our Main Stage event. We encourage real life experiences sharing projects, implementations, successes and failure using practical examples, fun graphics and engaging content.

Lightning Talk

5-minute, prepared presentation showcasing  technology use in the nonprofit sector (5 min)

Tech Forward is looking for:

  • Strong content that encourages virtual engagement through exercises or demonstrations and provides takeaways or actionable steps
  • Energizing talks that include case studies and/or personal experiences
  • Passionate speakers excited about sharing expertise, real-life strategies and knowledge on topics around nonprofit security, marketing and fundraising, data management and use, innovative technologies, constituent communication, productivity, and internal capacity building
  • Openness to work with Tech Forward team to deliver best possible content and experience for attendees
  • Sharing and promoting participation in Tech Forward with social networks or constituent emails

Proposals Should:

  • Fit into one of the five focus areas
    • Infrastructure and Security
    • Data Management
    • Digital Marketing, Outreach, and Fundraising
    • Program Service and Delivery
    • Governance and Strategy 
  • Avoid being product specific and any perception of a sales pitch
  • Plan to fit within the noted time frame

*We welcome submissions from those outside the nonprofit sector, but preference will be given to those with strong ties to the nonprofit sector

Speaker Submission Timeline

  • Call for Speakers: April 22 – May 31, 2021
  • Recorded sessions due back August 20, 2021
  • Speaker Notifications: Rolling basis through July 2021
  • PLEASE NOTE: Only speakers with accepted proposals will be contacted. If you have question on your proposal or would like to check on its status, please email Tech Forward for more information.
Please fill out the below form to submit a proposal.

Tech Forward will only contact you if we require more information or if we feel your proposal fits our attendees’ needs. Thank you for your interest!